Polychrome Spandrel-Shaped Tile Panel with Floral and Arabesque Motifs
Date1938-1939
PeriodPahlavi
MediumCeramic, polychrome pigments
ClassificationsCeramics
Object number48.87.2
DescriptionThese bright yellow tiles outline the two arches of Shangri La’s courtyard. The tiles are embellished with large floral motifs with delicate green stems and serrated leaves. Although the designs emulate the style of the Safavid dynasty (1501–1722 CE), these tiles were created in the 1930s. Following a trip to Iran, Doris Duke commissioned contemporary craftsmen to create tile panels based on the recently renovated mosque, Masjid-i-Shah in Isfahan Iran. Masjid-i-Shah (the Shah’s mosque) was constructed between 1612 to 1630 CE by the Safavid ruler and patron of the arts, Shah ‘Abbas I. During the Pahlavi rule of Iran in the twentieth century, Safavid buildings were restored — along with the skills and craftsmanship required to carry out the work.On View
On viewCollections
17th century
17th century
17th century
17th century
